Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Orange County Community College

The earnings trajectory here tells a more encouraging story than the initial numbers suggest. While Orange County Community College graduates start at just $20,630—roughly $3,000 below the state median and $6,600 below the national average—they see a 67% earnings jump by year four, reaching $34,495. That's actually above both state and national medians for this program, suggesting many graduates successfully transfer to four-year schools or develop marketable skills over time.

Within New York's competitive associate degree landscape, this program sits at the 40th percentile, which is middle-of-the-pack performance in a state with significant variation (top earners make $60,000+). The manageable $10,625 debt load—about half a first-year salary—makes the weak initial earnings less concerning. For students using this as a genuine stepping stone rather than a terminal degree, that's a reasonable investment.

The critical question is whether your student plans to continue their education. If they're transferring to complete a bachelor's degree, this could work as an affordable foundation. But if they're planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, that $20,630 starting salary in New York's expensive Hudson Valley region is going to be a real struggle. This program works best for students with clear transfer plans, not those expecting the associate degree alone to launch a career.